Edo State, GIZ Collaborate to Enhance Ease of Doing Business

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

In a crucial move to bolster the Ease of Doing Business (EODB) climate in Edo State, the Edo State Government recently convened a significant meeting with representatives from the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) at the Edo State Investment Promotion Office (ESIPO).

The primary objective of this session was to evaluate the outcome of prior collaborations and chart a more robust path forward, aimed at elevating Edo’s standing in the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) ratings.

GIZ has been a steadfast partner to Edo State over the years, offering invaluable support in the state’s mission to enhance the Ease of Doing Business.

This partnership has yielded noteworthy successes, and the recent meeting provided an opportunity to assess the tangible achievements and strategize for the future.

One of the top priorities identified during the meeting was the enhancement of EODB for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Both parties were committed to ensuring that these businesses encounter fewer obstacles and experience a more streamlined process.

One of the key area of focus was simplifying business-related processes and reducing bureaucratic complexities. Streamlining these procedures can significantly enhance the overall EODB environment.

Recognising the importance of reducing the cost of doing business, both parties underscored the need to implement measures that make it more affordable for enterprises, particularly small and medium-sized ones.

During the discussion, the ongoing installation of the One-Stop Shop (OSS) at the State Secretariat Complex was highlighted as a transformative initiative. The OSS aims to improve access to essential services and information for businesses, promising to be a game-changer for Edo State.

Challenges related to road infrastructure and energy generation were also acknowledged.

While Edo State currently hosts the 95MW Ossiomo Power Plant serving government offices and key projects like the Production Hub and the Benin Enterprise Park (BEP), ensuring affordable electricity for small businesses emerged as a priority, Managing Director of ESIPO, Kelvin Uwaibi, noted that the state is collaborating with the Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria (REAN) and the Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta – PIND, to enable 20 renewable energy producers to provide affordable power, especially in rural areas.

The meeting underscored the importance of greater synergy among various government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to streamline processes effectively. Enhanced collaboration is seen as an essential step to eliminate redundancy and enhance overall efficiency.

Represented by Mr. Omoware Akinropo, Head of Component, Policy and Strategy; and Mr. Pearse Akinwande, Access to Finance Policy Advisor, GIZ reiterated its unwavering commitment to supporting Edo State in its EoDB initiatives.

The meeting also highlighted Aftercare Services as a critical component of EODB. Ongoing efforts to strengthen aftercare services in Edo State have already benefited 450 businesses from the state’s thriving business community.

According to Akinropo, “The collaboration between the Edo State Government and GIZ reflects their dedication to improving the Ease of Doing Business and attracting more investments to the state.

Also, Akinwanse said: “This partnership is poised to drive economic growth and prosperity in Edo State, making it an increasingly attractive destination for businesses of all sizes and setting a remarkable example of business-friendly governance in Nigeria.”